The function of long non-coding RNAs in vascular biology and disease

In recent years, it has been revealed that majority of the genome is transcribed in a cell- and context-specific manner into a vast array of RNA transcripts that do not encode proteins. Increasing evidence suggests that non-coding RNAs, especially long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are essential regulators of gene expression and other cellular processes, including in the cardiovascular context. In this review, we discuss lncRNAs and their function during endothelial and vascular smooth cell differentiation, function and homeostasis as well as their role in vessel wall injury response and vascular disease pathophysiology. Although our understanding of lncRNAs is still emerging, these examples reveal important insights on how lncRNAs may ultimately be used in clinic as therapeutic targets for cardiovascular disease.